
10 Things You Should Do Before Your Driving Knowledge Exam
Many people get to the DMV overconfident and underprepared because they fail to do some of the simple things that would allow them to pass easily. What follows are the 10 steps that every aspiring driver should take to prepare for his or her official knowledge exam.
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Washington Driver’s License & Permit FAQ
How Can I Apply for my WA Driver’s License? Frequently Asked Questions
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How old should I be when I apply for my driver’s license in Washington?
If you are enrolled in a traffic safety course, you may apply for your permit at age 15. If you are not enrolled in a driver’s safety course, you must be at least 15 ½ before getting your permit. You must be at least 16 before applying for your license.What type of documents should I have when I apply for a license in Washington?
You must provide:- Proof of Identity: Find a list of documents based on age at http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/idproof.html
- Parental Authorization Statement- if under 18.
- Signed certificate from driving instructor, if enrolled in a driver’s education class.
- Proof of address
- Social Security number
What requirements do I need to meet before getting a license in Washington?
Getting your license in Washington is a big deal.
You may be eligible for a permit if you are:- At least 15 and enrolled in a state approved traffic safety courses.
OR - 15 ½ if not enrolled in a traffic safety course.
- You are at least 16 years old.
- Have had an instruction permit for at least 6 months.
- At least 15 and enrolled in a state approved traffic safety courses.
Where can I apply for my Washington license?
There are two ways to apply for your Washington driver’s license.
You can either:- Begin your pre-application online. This is recommended and saves a lot of time.
OR - Go to a local DOL office to begin your application.
- Begin your pre-application online. This is recommended and saves a lot of time.
What is the Washington DOL office contact information?
If you need to contact the Washington DOL office, you can email them at [email protected] or you may call them at 360-902-3900.Who should bring me for my permit test in Washington?
If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign a Parental Authorization Statement allowing you to apply for a permit. For that reason, they should bring you.Do I need a physical in order to get a license in Washington?
No. A physical isn’t needed when getting a license in Washington.Will I be required to have a vision test before getting my license in Washington?
Yes, you will be required to take a vision test which includes color recognition.Where do I go to take my driver’s license photo in Washington?
You will take your driver’s license photo at the Washington DOL office.How can I apply for my Washington driver’s license?
Here’s how to apply for your Washington driver’s license:- Be at least 15 and enrolled in a traffic safety course in order to get a permit, 15 ½ if not enrolled in a traffic safety course in order to get a permit, and 16 to get a license.
- Pass a traffic safety education course -- if under 15 ½.
- Hold your instruction permit for at least 6 months before applying for a license.
- Get at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training (including 10 hours at night) with someone who has been licensed for at least 5 years.
What should I do next after applying for my Washington driver’s license?
Ok, so you have completed step 1 in the driver’s license process, which is obtain a learner’s permit. Your next step now would be to get at least 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training (including 10 hours at night) with someone who has been licensed for at least 5 years.- Collapse all
How Can I Get Ready for my WA Permit Test? Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I best study for the Washington permit test?
Study the Washington driver’s handbook. It’s the best way to study and prepare for the permit test. Find a copy of the handbook at http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/guide.html.Will I need driver’s education when getting my license in Washington?
Yes, you will need it if you are under 15 ½.
The minimum requirement is 30 hours of classroom instruction and five hours of training in a car. Four of those five hours should be spent driving rather than observing.Where can I get a Washington driver’s handbook from?
The Washington driver’s manual is easy to obtain. It is available in English and several other languages. The English version can be found at http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/guide.html.Should I read the entire Washington driver’s manual for the permit test?
It’s always in your best interest to read the entire manual. Everything that could possibly be on the test is in the manual. The chapters will cover:- Insurance Requirements
- Traffic Control Devices
- Abnormal Driving Conditions
- Reversible Lanes
- Roundabouts
- Driving Distractions
- Speed limits
- And Much More
Where can I find a Washington practice test app for my iPhone/iPad?
Go here for the best iPhone/iPad app http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dmv-genius-free-permit-practice/id513850893?mt=8What kind of questions will be on the Washington permit test?
Here are a few sample questions from the Washington DOL practice test.- “To change lanes, you should________”
- “If your car starts to skid, turn your steering wheel:___”
- “Any time you want to merge with other traffic, you should: __________.”
How is the written test graded in Washington?
The Washington permit test has 40 questions. You must score at least 32 of those questions correctly in order to pass.Where can I find Washington permit practice tests online?
The Washington DOL has a sample test available at: http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/practicetest.html
There are also very helpful flash cards available at
http://www.proprofs.com/flashcards/story.php?title=washington-state-drivers-knowledge-testWhere is the best place to go for the written test in Washington?
Just go over to your local Washington DOL office when you are ready to take your permit test. Easily find locations near you at https://fortress.wa.gov/dol/dolprod/dsdoffices/.What should I do the night before the Washington permit test?
Relax and use the night before as a time for review. Take a look at these awesome flash cards at http://www.proprofs.com/flashcards/story.php?title=washington-state-drivers-knowledge-test.How many people on average pass their Washington permit test the first time?
Washington does not have an exact average on record, however, those who passed the first time usually took the time to study and prepare for their exam.How can I tell when I’m ready for my Washington permit test?
Here are the obvious signs of being permit test ready!- Can recall all road signs.
- Can discuss the rules of the road.
- Can score a perfect or near perfect score on practice tests.
What should I do once I’m ready for my Washington permit test?
When you are ready for your Washington permit test, just take your necessary documents and go down to your nearest DOL office. In order to avoid the busiest traffic, go during early morning hours.- Collapse all
Frequently Asked Questions about Taking Your Washington Permit Test
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Where do I go to sign up for the Washington permit test?
Go to your local Washington DOL branch when you are ready to sign up for your permit test. Easily find locations and hours at https://fortress.wa.gov/dol/dolprod/dsdoffices/.When can I get a permit in Washington?
Try for your permit when…..- You are at least 15 ½ years old (15 if you are enrolled in a traffic safety course).
- You can prove your identity and supply your Social Security Card.
- Your parents are willing to sign a Parental Authorization form – if under 18.
- You can pass your knowledge test.
What sort of documents do I need when I go in to take my written test in Washington?
You will need documents such as:- Proof of Identity: Find a list of documents based on age at http://www.dol.wa.gov/driverslicense/idproof.html
- Parental Authorization Statement- if under 18.
- Signed certificate from driving instructor, if enrolled in a driver’s education class.
- Proof of address
- Social Security number
How much is the Washington permit test?
The cost varies by location. Check with your testing location for the exact amount.Will my parents have to bring me for my Washington learner’s permit?
Yes, your parent or legal guardian should accompany you if you are under 18. They need to fill out the Parental Authorization Affidavit that says you have permission to get a license.What do I need to know in order to pass the Washington written test?
The permit test will cover the rules of the road and more.
You should know laws regarding daily traffic situations, routine stops, DUI’s, and more.How many questions are there on the Washington permit test?
There are 40 questions on the test. In order to pass, you have to score at least 32 correctly.How will I know if I’ve passed the Washington permit test?
You’ll take the knowledge test at a computer. The computer will score you after you finish. You must get 32 out of 40 questions correct.How many questions am I allowed to get wrong on the Washington permit test?
You can’t miss more than 8 questions. That means you must answer at least 32 questions correctly.What are common mistakes made on the Washington permit test?
All kinds of mistakes are made on the permit test. Often times, applicants overlook sections of the manual that give important information such as:- DUI laws
- Distances, speeds and measurements
- Routine traffic stops by law enforcement
Will I be allowed to use the manual on the Washington permit test?
No. You must be able to pass this test on your own.Is a drug test required when getting a permit in Washington?
No. There is no drug test in the Washington licensing process.Where can I see some feedback from people who have already passed their Washington permit test?
Visit one of the permit practice tests above and scroll down to see the Facebook comments section -- those were left by people who have already passed the DOL test or are still getting ready for it. Good luck!What’s going to happen if I fail my Washington permit test?
Failing your permit test isn’t the end of the world. If there’s enough time, you can take it again in 4 hours.When can I take the Washington permit test again if I fail?
The first time you fail, you can take it again in 4 hours. The second time you fail, you can take it again in 1 day. You must pay a fee each time you retake it. Check with your testing location for the exact amount.Who can ride in the car with me if I only have a Washington permit?
There must be a licensed driver at least 21, with no less than 5 years driving experience, in the car with you at all times.Are there any restrictions on my Washington license after I get it?
Here are the restrictions:- For the first 6 months -- You cannot have passengers under 20 unless they are immediate family.
- For the first 12 months – You can’t have more than 3 people in the car with you under 20 years old. You can’t drive between 1a.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are with a licensed driver at least 25 years old.
- Never use a cell phone.
May I drive anywhere in Washington with a learner’s permit?
Definitely. You are encouraged to drive in different places and situations in order to get adequate behind -the -wheel training. Always be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21, with no less than 5 years of driving experience.After I pass my Washington written test, what happens?
Great! Now that you have your permit, it’s time to get some practice in. Between now and the next 6 months, get at least 50 hours of driving practice while supervised by a licensed driver 25 or older. Ten of these hours must be at night.- Collapse all
Getting Ready for Your Washington Road Test: FAQ
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What is the best way to prepare for the Washington road test?
Get prepared for your big road test by:- Parallel parking
- Going through intersections
- Merging and passing
Where is the best place to practice for the road test in Washington?
Take advantage of as many driving situations and environments as possible.
Drive on the actual DOL testing routes. Pay attention to your surroundings so you won’t be caught off guard on the road test.Where can I find a driving school in Washington?
There are plenty of good driving schools in Washington such as 911 Driving School. The instructors at this school are actual police officers. Find a list of other schools at http://driversed.com/driving-schools/wa-driving-school-list.aspx.Where is the easiest DOL office to take my Washington road test?
The easiest office will probably be the closest location to you. According to the Washington DOL, the best days to go are Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Fridays.What should I bring with me on the day of the Washington driving exam?
On the day of your exam, bring:- A properly registered and insured vehicle
- A licensed driver
What will I be expected to do on the Washington road test?
You will be expected to …- Use the gas pedal, brake, steering wheel, and other controls properly.
- Change lanes carefully
- Turn your head and look back when changing lanes
- Obey traffic signals and signs
What should I do the night before the Washington road test?
There are plenty of things to do the night before the road test.
Go for one more practice drive, but this time on a DOL testing route. After that, just relax and rest.Should I schedule a road test in Washington?
Yes. Begin scheduling your road test online at https://fortress.wa.gov/dol/dolprod/dsdoffices/.Where should I go for my Washington driving test?
Choose the DOL office you will test at when you schedule your appointment. Go online to https://fortress.wa.gov/dol/dolprod/dsdoffices/.Will the Washington DOL office supply me with a car for the road test?
No. You have to supply your own car. You have to provide proof of insurance.- Collapse all
Taking Your Road Test (Driving Exam) in Washington: Frequently Asked Questions
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Can anyone take me for my road test in Washington?
Your parents should bring you but, if that’s not possible, contact the DOL office at 360-902-3900 for other alternatives.What tips will help me pass my Washington road test the first time?
You should know that there are 100 points available on the Washington road test. You must score at least 80 of them. The test is divided into 4 parts:- Pretest
- Backing Maneuver
- Parallel Parking
- Lane Changing and Turning
What should I keep in mind when taking the road test in Washington?
You will be tested on:- How safely you make turns
- Yielding and proper use right of way
- How safe and proper you change lanes.
What common mistakes would cause me to fail the Washington road test?
Here are common mistakes you want to avoid.- Failing to carefully scan signs, pedestrians and other vehicles
- Failing to stop smoothly
- Following other cars too closely
- Forgetting to look over shoulder when changing lanes
What will I be asked to do on the road test in Washington?
According to the Washington DOL, you’ll be evaluated on:- Starting your vehicle
- Leaving the curb
- Signaling when entering traffic
- Obeying traffic signals and signs.
- Turning in proper lane
- Responding to crowded or blind intersections
- Stopping quickly in an emergency
- Reacting to other drivers
- Arm signals
- Parking on a hill.
- Parallel parking.
Will there be Parallel Parking on the Washington road test?
Yes. You will be judged on how safely you can parallel park.May I wear my contacts/glasses on the Washington road test?
Yes. You should wear corrective lenses if that is what you normally use to see with.Can I have someone else in the car with me during my Washington road test?
The only person allowed in the car with you is the examiner.What will happen if I fail my driving exam several times in Washington?
It all depends on your results.
The 1st time you fail, you can take it again in 1 week.
The 2nd time you fail, you can take it again in 1-3 weeks.
The 3rd time you fail, you can take it again after 3 months.- Collapse all
I Have Passed the WA Road Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions
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What will happen after I pass my Washington road test?
You will be issued a temporary license that will be valid for 45 days. Your original one will arrive in the mail in 7 -10 days.What limitations will be on my Washington driver’s license after I get it?
Here are the limitations:- For the first 6 months -- You can’t have passengers under 20 unless they are immediate family.
- For the first 12 months – You can’t have more than 3 people in the car with you under 20 years old. You can’t drive between 1a.m. and 5 a.m. unless you are with a licensed driver at least 25 years old. You aren’t allowed to use a cell phone (this includes wireless devices also).
Is there anything I should keep in mind when driving in Washington for the first time?
When driving in Washington for the first time, remember these things:- Don’t drink and drive
- Don’t roll through stop signs
- Drive defensively
What is the best type of car insurance to get in Washington?
The best type of car insurance in Washington will include:- Bodily Injury Liability: $25,000/$50,000
- Property Damage Liability: $10,000
What will I need in order to get car insurance in Washington?
Different insurance companies will ask for different things based on their company’s policies. You will more than likely need to provide your driver’s license number, driver’s education (if any), car type and class, and address.What’s the average cost of car insurance in Washington?
The average yearly premium in Washington is $1279.Where can I find the cheapest car insurance in Washington?
Washington is actually becoming less expensive for car insurance compared to the other states. Many consumers in Washington have come with a list of the worst car insurance companies based on experiences and prices. Here are 7 of them.- Mid-century Insurance Company (A Farmers Insurance Group Company)
- Alpha Property & Casualty Insurance Company
- Patriot General Insurance Company
- Sentinel Insurance Company LTD
- Omni Insurance Company
- Workmen’s Auto Insurance Company
- Financial Indemnity Company
- Esurance
- Geico
- Progressive
- Allstate
- American Family
- Safeco
Why is car insurance so expensive with a new license in Washington?
New drivers have it tough when it comes to car insurance. Washington however, has lower premiums compared to the other 50 states. It ranks 35th out of the 50 states. Premiums average around $1279.- Collapse all
I Have Failed My Washington Road Test! What’s Next? Frequently Asked Questions
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When can I retake the Washington road test if I fail?
The 1st time you fail, you can take it again in 1 week.
The 2nd time you fail, you can take it again in 1-3 weeks.
The 3rd time you fail, you can take it again after 3 months.
You should practice before going back to take your test again.If I fail my Washington road test, what happens?
You won’t get your license. How long you must wait to retake your test will depend on your test results.- Collapse all
How Can I Renew My Driver’s License In WA? Frequently Asked Questions
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How can I renew my Washington driver’s license?
Everyone in Washington is buzzing about the new email notification license renewal system. If you want to be notified by email of renewal time, just sign up today!
You can renew your license:- Online
- By mail
- In person
Where should I go to renew my Washington driver’s license?
You may renew your license:- Online: If you are at least 24.
- By Mail: If you received a letter saying you can renew by mail.
- In person: You must pass a vision screening.
Do I need to take the written test again when I go to renew my license in Washington?
No. You aren’t required to take the written test again when renewing.- Collapse all
I’m Moving to Washington! Frequently Asked Questions
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Is there a road test when I move to Washington from another state, for example Texas?
Glad to have you in Washington! You have 30 days after becoming a resident to get a Washington state driver’s license. If your license is valid, you do not have to take a road test. You must provide proof of identity, Social Security Number and a licensing fee -- the cost varies by location. You must also pass a vision test.Is my out-of-state learner’s permit valid in Washington?
Washington recognizes out-of-state instructional permits. The permit must be valid and you must be with a licensed driver 21 or older.May I drive in Washington with my out-of-state license?
Yes, as long as your license is valid in your state of residence.May I drive in Washington with my out-of-country license?
If you are…- Visiting Washington from another country; your license is valid for 1 year.
- From Germany, South Korea, or British Columbia; you may simply obtain a Washington state license by following the same steps as anyone else would from another state.
- From any other country, you will have to begin your licensing process at Step 1.
How can I find more information about driving in Washington?
Find the answers to your questions on Washington State’s website at http://www.dol.wa.gov/.- Collapse all
General Questions About WA Driving License
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When is it legal to drive in the state of Washington?
It is legal to drive in Washington:- With a permit at age 15, if you are enrolled in driver’s education.
- With a permit at age 15 ½ if you are not enrolled in driver’s education.
- With a license at age 16 if you have held your permit at least 6 months.
What is the legal limit for drinking and driving in Washington?
Washington has a BAC limit of 0.08% for people over age 21 and a .02% limit for drivers under 21.- Collapse all
Here’s What Other Learners From WA Are Saying:
"I passed the test the first time without retaking it. I highly recommend this site to anyone taking the knowledge test for their first permit!"
Melissa C., Seattle, Washington
"This website is most helpful! I read the guide once and took all the practice tests. Today I passed the actual knowledge test with a 98%"
Nini Osaze-Q., Spokane, Washington
"Went through the questions once and passed with 93%!! Awesome material, thanks for all the help!"
Anshuman A., Tacoma, Washington
"Extremely helpful site for knowledge test. I did all Practice Tests 1 to 5 and the 150qn Marathon Test. I passed on my first attempt! All the questions that came out were almost the word for word identical! Recommended!!!"
Rachel T., Vancouver, Washington
"I had been trying to study from the Washington State Driving Booklet, but I was never able to remember anything from what I was reading. However, once I found this website I was able to learn the material with constant feedback and learn everything significantly faster. I passed my test!! Thank to this website I was able to skip pass expensive classes and achieve good results!"
Brennan B., Bellevue, Washington
"I took the test three hours ago, and passed with 22/25. Thanks to this website because I didn't read the handbook at all!!! Instead I did all the tests until I could score at least 24/25 in the test simulator. Thanks again and good luck to everyone!"
Yuyan Shui, Washington
"These tests were extremely helpful. I took all of them until I could pass them multiple times with 100%. I passed the knowledge test, 23/25 correct. I didn't even read the book all the way through. But you definitely should, then come here for the practice tests! I learned a lot from the tests alone. Thanks!"
Eva Vargas, Washington
"Words can not explain how helpful this site was to me, However my experience can. I've studied the practice test online for a week straight, the answers i got incorrect i studied more. I won't suggest that you have a photographic memory because its not the exact same but its definitely similar... guess that why it's called the simulator lol. Anyway i went to go and take the test I've passed and gained a learners permit, i know you can do the same with just a little practice on this website. Hope this helps you like it has helped me."
Telia Withers, Washington
"I needed to take my permit test for the first time so I used these practice tests to study and I passed with 91%. I just took all the tests available in my state a couple times and I was able to retain all the information. This website was certainly helpful and I really do recommend it. I will be showing this website to my younger siblings when it is their turn to take the permit test. Thanks!"
Alex R, Washington
"I knew from the moment I walked into the room that I was going to pass the written test. After many hours of studying the online tests and getting all 100s, I knew I had to get my permit. And I did! Thank you, Driving-tests.org!"
Adam Smith, Washington
"The WA DOL practice tests were very helpful to ace my first time driver's license written test. I highly recommend it for those who want to be familiar with American road rules."
Alex Pepino, Washington
"This thing actually works! I only used a book maybe twice for three months! Totally aced it, no wrong answers, and I'm feeling amazing for my next test! Thanks!!"
Taylor Hole, Washington
"Amazing practice tests - you need them before the real one."
Amy Ash, Washington

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10 Things You Should Do Before Your CDL Knowledge Exam
Many people get to the DMV overconfident and underprepared because they fail to do some of the simple things that would allow them to pass easily. What follows are the 10 steps that every aspiring commefcial driver should take to prepare for his or her official CDL or CLP knowledge exam.
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